Americans love their pets! The 2023-24 American Pet Products Association (APPA) National Pet Owners Survey reports that over 65 million American households have at least one dog, and over 46 million have at least one cat. Millennials are the largest demographic of pet owners, a group that is also the largest demographic of renters.
Given the overlap, there are considerations for both groups. Let’s examine the laws around renting to those with pets as well as the advantages and disadvantages of allowing pets in your rental property.
Massachusetts Rental Laws for Pets
Landlords and property managers control whether they rent to people with pets. Under the Fair Housing Act and with proper documentation, they must allow service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs).
In Massachusetts, pet laws for rental properties specify what landlords can and cannot charge. While pet rent is allowed in some cases, charging a separate security deposit that exceeds the first month’s rent is not permitted.
Two current bills in Massachusetts aim to support renters struggling to find pet-friendly rentals. The first bill (S.1022/H.1559) would make it more difficult for landlords to discriminate against renters with pets. Its purpose is to ban breed-specific rules in public housing and condo associations and cap pet-related fees. The second bill (H.1476) focuses on state-supported public housing for older residents and on ensuring consistent policies across housing authorities.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Renting to Pet Owners
Given the legal requirements for property owners, the question remains: “Should you rent to tenants who have pets?” Let’s weigh the pros and cons of renting to pet owners.
Advantages
Larger Applicant Pool
With nearly 70% of households owning a pet, opening rentals to pet owners can dramatically expand your applicant pool.
More Earning Potential
Overall revenue can be increased by charging the legally allowed pet fee.
Longer Leasing Terms
Pet owners tend to stay in rental units longer than non-pet owners. This is due to the lack of available rentals that allow pets. Longer leases mean less turnover and lower costs for property owners.
Responsible Renters
While not always the case, a Michigan State study showed that owning a pet teaches responsibility and trust and improves social skills.
Disadvantages
Property Damage
One of the most commonly cited reasons for not allowing pets is the fear of damage caused by pets and their normal behavior, such as scratching, digging, and chewing.
Noise Complaints
Second on the list of common issues associated with pet owners renting is the potential issues with barking dogs, hissing cats or even a bird that caws loudly. Neighbors could find these living situations untenable.
Sanitation Issues
Dog or cat waste in common areas or along walkways can be unsanitary and malodorous.
Liability Risks
Liability insurance may be increased if a pet injury occurs, such as a bite from an unfriendly dog.
Allowing pets in your rental property is a complex decision that requires balancing the significant upsides, like accessing a larger applicant pool, potentially increasing revenue, and securing longer lease terms, against the risks of property damage, noise issues, sanitation problems, and liability concerns. Furthermore, property owners in Massachusetts must navigate specific regulations, including the rules around charging pet rent and the prohibition on excessive security deposits, while also keeping an eye on pending legislation aimed at protecting pet owners. Making an informed decision based on these legal requirements and a clear cost-benefit analysis is crucial for success.
For comprehensive guidance on managing pet policies and staying compliant with Massachusetts rental laws, visit Thayer & Associates.